Abstract: Thermal energy storage systems and devices comprise at least one storage vessel, at least one heat transfer ramp adjacent to the at least one storage vessel, and at least one heat transfer fluid channel adjacent to the heat transfer ramp. Heat exchange occurs between a heat transfer medium traveling down the heat transfer ramp and a heat transfer fluid traveling through the heat transfer channel. The heat transfer ramp may be angled with respect to the storage vessel such that the heat transfer medium travels down the heat transfer ramp assisted by force of gravity.

Abstract: Systems and methods of energy storage and release comprise at least one storage vessel and a combined conveyor and heat transfer device linked to the at least one storage vessel by at least one discharge device. The combined conveyor and heat transfer device includes a rotatable conveyor drum and at least one heat transfer fluid conduit within the rotatable conveyor drum. A granular material travels from the at least one storage vessel to the combined conveyor and heat transfer device via the at least one discharge device, and the rotatable conveyor drum moves the granular material therethrough in counterflow to a flow of heat transfer fluid traveling through the heat transfer fluid conduit.